Education support is a wide spectrum of activities and programs that help learners, educators, and educational systems. They can include tutoring, mentoring, counseling, coaching, and guidance.
Educational support services are a critical component of student success. However, it’s important to remember that “support” doesn’t mean blind loyalty or defending things that are wrong.
1. Identify Your Needs and Goals
Education support services can be a valuable tool for students and educators to overcome academic or personal challenges that affect their learning and well-being. This can include tutoring, counseling, mentorships, extracurricular activities, and career guidance.
Identify student learning needs – Start by analyzing data on student performance and progress, including any trends that may have emerged. For example, does the school have a high percentage of English learners who are lagging behind their peers? Then, develop improvement goals and specific student outcomes that reflect realistic growth.
Create educator learning goals – Translate student goals into teacher goals, making sure that the objectives are aligned with the teacher’s current role and responsibilities. For instance, if there are a number of ELL students whose progress has stalled, consider setting a goal that prioritizes ELA learning strategies for these students. Educators should also identify any learning challenges and opportunities that they’re currently facing or experiencing in their roles.
2. Get to Know Your Child’s Teachers
Teachers see a lot of kids each day. They know what students have achieved and what they are struggling with in their academics, but they also have insight into each child’s social life, interests, personality, strengths, and weaknesses. They can help your child form relationships and become a well-rounded individual.
Teachers often have different teaching styles and methods, so it is important to get to know them and find out what works best for your child. This can help you support their learning at home and avoid conflict in the classroom.
Teachers are busy and many times they can’t meet with parents in person during the school year. It is important to make sure you are able to communicate with them and let them know if an email, conversation after school or scheduled meeting would be more appropriate for the situation. Keeping the lines of communication open helps to keep everyone happy. The most effective way to do this is to send a friendly check in email from time to time.
3. Support Your Child’s Learning
The best way to support your children’s learning is by getting involved in their education. Studies show that when parents are engaged in their child’s education, it helps them develop positive attitudes towards school and learn effectively. Make sure your children know you care about their progress in school by communicating with their teachers and getting to know the staff. Encourage them to excel by helping them set goals and finding ways to encourage their strengths. Don’t criticize them for their weaknesses or constantly stress over bad grades, as this can lead to negative feelings and a lack of motivation to learn.
Another way to promote their learning is by providing them with a comfortable environment in which to study. Ensure that they have a dedicated study space and the supplies they need to be successful. Also, make sure they have a quiet area where they can work without distractions. Education Support is a UK charity that offers support services to teachers and other members of the education workforce.
4. Apply for Special Services
If you suspect your child has a learning disability, it’s important to act quickly and get an evaluation. You can ask your child’s school for an educational evaluation, or you can contact your state’s special education department. The sooner kids get the help they need, the better chance they have of succeeding in school.
Many students who qualify for special education also need related services. These may include psychiatric services, counseling, or speech therapy. Kids who receive these services must have an IEP, and parents should always be involved in the planning process.
It is helpful to have your private therapist/evaluator attend IEP meetings. If they cannot travel to your local area, you can request that they participate by speaker or conference telephone. This helps ensure that your child’s team has the best possible information to make decisions about your child’s needs. This also allows for a full exchange of questions and answers. Education Support (previously Teacher Support Network, Recourse and Worklife Support) is a UK charity “dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of the education workforce.” They are also committed to ensuring that the status and rights of education support staff are respected.